Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Bake

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Bake is the ultimate comfort food that brings together tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and hearty rice in a rich, cheesy sauce. This easy one-dish meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this casserole is a lifesaver for home cooks looking to serve up something warm, filling, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or prepping meals in advance, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Bake

This dish checks all the boxes: it’s creamy, cheesy, savory, and loaded with nutritious ingredients. The combination of lean chicken and vibrant broccoli ensures you’re getting a balanced meal in every bite. Plus, the richness of the cheese and cream of chicken soup makes each forkful irresistibly delicious. It’s quick to make, easily adaptable to your taste, and perfect for enjoying as leftovers.

Ingredients

• 2 cups diced, cooked chicken breast
• 2 cups chopped fresh broccoli florets
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, with additional cheese for an optional topping
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs for an optional crunchy topping
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Bake

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is thoroughly mixed.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly into the greased baking dish.
4. Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter, then evenly sprinkle them over the top of the casserole. Add more cheddar cheese if you want an extra cheesy crust.
5. Bake: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the topping turns a golden brown.
6. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. It’s delicious on its own or accompanied by a fresh salad.

Helpful Tips

• Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
• Steam or microwave the broccoli for a softer texture before mixing.
• For a healthier version, opt for low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.
• Always taste and adjust the seasoning before baking.
• This recipe is great for meal prep; prepare in advance and bake when ready.

Substitutions And Variations

• Protein: Swap chicken for turkey or ham.
• Vegetables: Try adding vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers to boost the dish’s nutritional value.
• Soup: Replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese, sour cream, and a creamy plant-based soup.
• Low-Carb: Replace rice with cauliflower rice.

Storage Instructions

After cooling, place leftovers in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Calories per Serving: ~430
• Servings: 6

Serving Suggestions

Serve this comforting casserole with a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or a warm piece of crusty bread. It also pairs well with a glass of white wine or a light lemonade for a refreshing balance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Bake

Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it into the casserole to avoid excess moisture.

Can this casserole be prepared in advance? Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze the casserole? Yes. Prepare the dish, wrap it well, and freeze before or after baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat until warm.

What kind of rice works best? Both white and brown rice work well. Ensure the rice is completely cooked before incorporating it into the mixture.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Use a gluten-free cream soup and breadcrumbs or omit the topping entirely.

Conclusion

Thank you for stopping by and sharing in the joy of cooking this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Rice Bake. It’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is easy, blending simple ingredients into a meal the whole family will love. I hope you find it as delicious and hassle-free as I do. Enjoy every bite, and remember, there’s always room for seconds. Happy cooking, and thanks for being part of this food-loving community!